Every year Australia eases off between the Melbourne Cup and Australia Day, an unofficial months-long slowdown that helps many workers switch off but may be weighing on national output. Labour productivity has fallen to 0.8%, and critics say the annual pause compounds the country’s weak growth, while supporters point to clear benefits for wellbeing and synchronised time off.
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Updated 5 November 2026 at 10:21 pm. Prices are delayed and for information only.
Longstanding customers are revisiting memories of David Jones’ marble floors, wooden escalators and in-store services as the century-old retailer confronts a precarious future. The Elizabeth Street flagship, long a draw for suburban families making an annual pilgrimage to the city, now stands uncertain as shopping habits and competition have reshaped retail.
The Wright Burt Foundation has donated $120 million to environmental causes, with large gifts distributed across 10 environmental organisations. The donation from one of Western Australia’s wealthiest families represents a major private boost to conservation groups operating in the state.
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